Injuries that damage a "deep structure" like a bone, tendon or nerve should always be treated by a doctor.
2. What do you think “it’s a different ballgame” means?
When deep structures are involved, it's a different ballgame.
3. What are signs of a deep cut?
Forceful bleeding and bright red blood are dangerous signs of a deep cut.
4. What is Gelfoam?
Gelfoam is a cellulose product that promotes the clotting of blood by giving blood sort of a matrix upon which to clot.
5. What should you do if your fingertip is cut off?
First, gently clean the amputated part with water or saline. Next, without drying the fingertip, cover the part in gauze or a cloth. Place it in a waterproof bag and place the bag on ice. Do not put the amputated part itself directly on ice. That could damage it more. Bring the fingertip to a hospital as quickly as possible.
6. Dr. Brown says fingertips are not often reattached if they are the length of a fingernail or shorter.
7. How is a fingertip reattached?
It's not a simple procedure by any means. It’s done under a microscope, reattaching nerves and arteries and tendons.
8. What does a patient have to do to regain use of their finger?Patients must also be willing to undergo a rehabilitation process to regain use of the finger.
